Practice shoes  are a real lifesaver (or foot saver) for those who are struggling to learn the basics or for those who practice more than an hour a day.

• Practice shoes have low heels and laces.
• Often sold in comfortable sneaker styles.
• When buying, don't worry too much about colour or type. Just find a comfortable pair that is flexible enough to dance in, breathable, and has some level of grip so you don't slide on a polished wood floor.

Smooth/Standard Shoes  are the most common type of ballroom shoes.

• Look for a closed toe  if you are just beginning or your dance partner has two left feet.
• Although sky-high heels are sexy, don't buy a heel that is out of your league. Make sure you can do quick spins and jump around in your shoes.
• Look for shoes that have a snug fit, but make sure your toes aren't overlapping or crammed!
• Buy in a nude/skin tone shade that will match with almost any outfit.

Latin dance shoes  are bold, flashy, and super sexy.

• Open toe shoes  should fit so your toes meet the very edge or even hang off by a quarter of an inch.
• Look for heels that are closer to the center of the foot. Not only will they be easier to balance in, but these shoes will lift you even higher!
• Look for decor here. Latin shoes are meant to be flashy, so look for shoes that are shiny, bold, or have jewels.

Cross ankle straps  are super sexy and can give you some extra ankle support.

Single ankle straps  are basic and versatile.

T-Straps  are alluring and romantic.